The original motto was "We Trade". A new motto of "We Build" was adopted during the 1920 International Convention and represented Kiwanis for more than 80 years until our current motto was adopted in 2005.

Defining Statement: "Kiwanis is a global organization of volunteers dedicated to improving the world, one child and one community at a time."

The defining statement was updated just last year to include the word "improving" instead of the previous word "changing." This update was to reflect the sentiment that through Kiwanis, we can not only make a difference, but make a positive one.

Objects of Kiwanis-

The six permanent Objects of Kiwanis International were approved by Kiwanis club delegates at the 1924 Kiwanis International Convention in Denver, Colorado. Through the decades, they have remained unchanged.

To give primacy to the human and spiritual rather than to the material values of life.

To encourage the daily living of the Golden Rule in all human relationships.

To promote the adoption and the application of higher social, business and professional standards.

To develop, by precept and example, a more intelligent, aggressive and serviceable citizenship.

To provide, through Kiwanis clubs, a practical means to form enduring friendships, to render altruistic service and to build better communities.

To cooperate in creating and maintaining that sound public opinion and high idealism which make possible the increase of righteousness, justice, patriotism and goodwill.